Latest MPAA Ratings: BULLETIN NO: 2195

Today Steve McQueen‘s Shame officially received its NC-17 rating from the MPAA for “some explicit sexual content,” which is to say I guess all they saw was the sex because that isn’t all that should be mentioned in that rating. Nevertheless, a few days ago The Hollywood Reporter ran a fascinating article regarding Fox Searchlight’s decision to distribute the film with an NC-17 rating, a decision that will result in some theaters not showing it, some newspapers not advertising it, etc. So how does Searchlight plan on getting beyond the film’s rating? By embracing it…

I think NC-17 is a badge of honor, not a scarlet letter. We believe it is time for the rating to become usable in a serious manner. The sheer talent of the actors and the vision of the filmmaker are extraordinary. It’s not a film that everyone will take easily, but it certainly breaks through the clutter and is distinctive and original. It’s a game changer… I think Shame’s profile will pique people’s curiosity. I’m optimistic this will be a significant film and change the attitude of people toward this kind of subject matter.

The film is certainly up for awards consideration and will hit theaters on December 2 and it will be interesting to see it all play out.

And with that said, here are the new MPAA ratings from BULLETIN NO: 2195.